In Middenmeer, the research programme Geo4all carried out a unique stress test at Ennatuurlijk Aardwarmte. This test – captured on video – is part of Work Package 4 (WP4) and provides valuable insights into stress and cooling processes in a geothermal reservoir.
A key question in WP4 is: where does cooling occur in the subsurface, and what are the implications for seismicity and reservoir integrity? Using advanced techniques, the test measured the natural stress conditions in the subsurface – a critical parameter for geothermal operators when modelling safe production processes and applying for permits.
The stress test also contributes to understanding whether more sustainable heat can be extracted using the same infrastructure: can existing wells produce more without additional investment?
Watch the video of this unique test:
